Dial Of Ahaz
ArtifactsWhat is the meaning of Dial Of Ahaz in the Bible?
The 'dial of Ahaz' was a timekeeping instrument, possibly a series of steps, upon which shadows were cast; the biblical narrative describes the shadow moving backward ten degrees as a miraculous sign confirming Hezekiah's recovery.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding this artifact clarifies the historical context of the miracle, showing how a tangible, observable phenomenon in the ancient Near East served as divine confirmation of God's promise to extend the king's life.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Dial Of Ahaz were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Dial Of Ahaz in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Dial Of Ahaz clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Dial Of Ahaz." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/dial-of-ahaz/